The Ghana National fire service in the Savannah Region has on Thursday, 4th May, 2023 marked this year’s international Firefighters Day at Damongo under the theme; “Recognizing the sacrifices of firefighters and our fallen heroes”
The International Fire Fighters’ Day is a day set aside and observed on May 4th every year to honor and celebrate the selfless sacrifice and services of Fire Fighters’ around the world.
Fire Fighters day celebration was created in 1999 after five (5) Fire Fighters died tragically during a wildfire suppression in Laison in Australia when the direction of the wind suddenly changed and they were engulfed in flames.
The regional fire officer, ACFOI Emmanuel Ofori Adjei in an address said 4th May is chosen as a day for the celebration because it is Saint Florian’s day, explaining that Saint Florian is said to be the Commanding Fire Fighter of an actual Roman battalion who saved many lives.
He stated that, the Ghana National Fire Service on this day celebrates, recognizes, appreciate and honour all fire Officers including their fallen heroes and that of their families for their dedication, commitment and selfless sacrifices that are usually displayed to keep the country and forest safe from ravages of wild, domestic fire and Road Traffic accidents at the peril of their lives.
He revealed that, the Savannah region has recorded fifty two (52) fire outbreaks from January to March, 2023 as compared to the same period in 2022 when the recorded forty nine (49) fire outbreaks indicating a percentage of 6.1% increase.
He further disclosed that two road traffic accidents were also recorded from January to March 2022 with twenty three (23) of the victims recording some injuries with three deaths but also noted that no accidents were recorded from January to March, 2023.
He also lamented on some challenges faced by the service, stating that the major challenge is the disconnection of electricity power supply to the regional headquarters and the municipal sub station by NEDco officials from Damongo for the non-payment of bills noting that it has halted their administrative and operational duties and therefore appealed to the Hon. Municipal Chief Executive to intervene for the restoration of electricity power supply to the buildings.
Source; padfm.com.gh/Gogu Edwin/ 0555588660
